Dahshur Pyramids

Bent Pyramid

Dahshur is a relatively isolated place south of Giza. Few tourists visit Dahshur, though the two pyramids here are impressive. The Bent Pyramid is 90 meters tall and is the fourth tallest pyramid in Egypt. It was built by Senefru, father of Cheops (the builder of the Great Pyramid).

Engineering Mistake

The Bent Pyramid is one of the first pyramids built. The reason that this pyramid is bent is because the initial angle proved too steep, and the engineers had to change it midway through construction.

Limestone Casing

The Bent Pyramid is the only pyramid with its outer casing almost completely preserved. The pyramids closer to Cairo were robbed out in the Middle Ages by those building the city. The outer casing is a series of very finely cut stones. The overall effect is that the pyramids glisten in the hot Egyptian sun.

Red Pyramid

The Red Pyramid was built by Senefru and is 105 meters tall. It is the third tallest pyramid in Egypt, after the Cheops and Chefren pyramids in Giza. The Red Pyramid is considered to be the first true pyramid and is made of sandstone. The entrance is made of red stones.

The Builder

Senefru was the founder of the great 4th Dynasty. Before the Giza pyramids were constructed, Senefru built three pyramids: these two in Dahshur and another one in Meidum. He is the only pharaoh with three pyramids.